1 Kings 2:20

KJV

Then she said, I desire one small petition of thee; [I pray thee], say me not nay. And the king said unto her, Ask on, my mother: for I will not say thee nay.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then she said {H559}, I desire {H7592} one {H259} small {H6996} petition {H7596} of thee; I pray thee, say {H7725} me {H6440} not nay {H7725}. And the king {H4428} said {H559} unto her, Ask on {H7592}, my mother {H517}: for I will not say {H7725} thee {H6440} nay {H7725}.

Complete Jewish Bible

She said, "I am asking one small favor of you; don't deny me." The king said to her, "Ask, mother; I won't deny you."

Berean Standard Bible

“I have just one small request of you,” she said. “Do not deny me.” “Make your request, my mother,” the king replied, “for I will not deny you.”

American Standard Version

Then she said, I ask one small petition of thee; deny me not. And the king said unto her, Ask on, my mother; for I will not deny thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This pivotal verse captures a tense and strategically charged exchange between the newly enthroned King Solomon and his mother, Bathsheba. She approaches him with what she presents as a "one small petition," earnestly imploring him not to refuse her. Demonstrating profound filial respect and an initial willingness to honor his mother, the young king readily assents, promising not to deny her request. This brief dialogue sets the immediate stage for a critical moment of royal discernment, revealing the intricate web of political maneuvering at the dawn of Solomon's reign and foreshadowing the decisive consolidation of his authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the narrative of King Solomon's ascension to the throne, immediately following the death of King David and Solomon's divinely sanctioned anointing as his successor, a process detailed in [1 Kings 1](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - David's Last Days and Solomon's Anointing"). The preceding chapter describes Adonijah's failed attempt to usurp the throne during David's final days ([1 Kings 1:5-10](/1_kings/1-5-10 "1 Kings 1:5-10 - Adonijah's Usurpation Attempt")), and Solomon's subsequent anointing ([1 Kings 1:32-40](/1_kings/1-32-40 "1 Kings 1:32-40 - Solomon's Anointing")). In [1 Kings 2](/1_kings/2 "1 Kings 2 - David's Charge to Solomon and Solomon's Consolidation of Power"), David gives his final charge to Solomon, urging him to walk in God's ways and deal with certain individuals. Adonijah, still harboring ambitions, then approaches Bathsheba with a seemingly innocuous request to marry Abishag the Shunammite ([1 Kings 2:17](/1_kings/2-17 "1 Kings 2:17 - Adonijah's Request for Abishag")), a young woman who had attended to King David in his old age. Bathsheba, in turn, presents this request to Solomon in [1 Kings 2:20](/1_kings/2-20 "1 Kings 2:20 - Bathsheba's Petition to Solomon"), setting the stage for Solomon's decisive response and the consolidation of his reign.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, the succession to the throne was frequently fraught with political intrigue, power struggles, and even violence. While primogeniture was a common practice, it was not an absolute rule; divine favor, a king's personal designation, or strategic alliances could override it. The role of the "queen mother" (Hebrew: _gebirah_) was often immensely significant, wielding considerable influence and frequently acting as an intercessor or mediator, as exemplified by Bathsheba's approach to Solomon. Furthermore, marrying a former concubine or attendant of a deceased king was a highly symbolic and politically charged act, frequently interpreted as a direct claim to the throne itself, signifying continuity of the royal household and succession to the previous king's authority and possessions. This crucial cultural understanding illuminates why Adonijah's seemingly personal request for Abishag was, in fact, a profound and dangerous political challenge, and why Solomon's subsequent response was so swift and severe.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several foundational themes within [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings - The Reign of Kings in Israel"). Firstly, it highlights the theme of **royal succession and the consolidation of power**. Solomon's ability to discern and decisively act upon the underlying threat of Adonijah's "small petition" demonstrates his emerging authority and nascent wisdom, a quality God later grants him in abundance ([1 Kings 3:5-14](/1_kings/3-5-14 "1 Kings 3:5-14 - Solomon's Request for Wisdom")). Secondly, the pervasive theme of **political maneuvering and ambition** is central, as Adonijah's request, though veiled, is a clear and calculated attempt to undermine Solomon's newly established reign. Thirdly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **divine sovereignty** over human schemes; despite the intricate human plots and machinations, God's ultimate plan for Solomon's reign and the stability of his kingdom ultimately prevails. Lastly, it touches upon the complex theme of **filial respect and its necessary limits** within the context of royal duty, as Solomon's initial deference to his mother is quickly superseded by his supreme responsibility as king to protect his kingdom and ensure its security.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Small (Hebrew, _qâṭân'_):** This adjective (H6996) denotes something abbreviated, diminutive, or of little quantity, size, or importance. Bathsheba's strategic use of "one small petition" (_shᵉʼêlâh qâṭânnâh_) is a deliberate understatement, designed to minimize the perceived significance of her request and to elicit an immediate, positive response from her son. The term itself carries no inherent judgment of size, making its qualification as "small" ironically misleading given the profound political implications that immediately follow.
* **Petition (Hebrew, _shᵉʼêlâh'_):** This noun (H7596) refers to a request, a plea, or something asked for. When combined with "small," it forms the core of Bathsheba's deceptive framing. The word itself is neutral, but in this context, it becomes a vehicle for Adonijah's ambition, demonstrating how even a seemingly innocent request can carry immense weight and hidden agendas within the political sphere.
* **Say me not nay (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** This idiomatic phrase, derived from the root H7725 meaning "to turn back" or "refuse," literally translates to "do not turn away my face" or "do not refuse my presence." It is a plea for favor and acceptance, emphasizing the earnestness of Bathsheba's request and her expectation that Solomon will honor her. It highlights the deeply personal nature of the appeal, leveraging the mother-son bond within the formal setting of the royal court. Solomon's echoing of this phrase, "I will not say thee nay," underscores his initial, seemingly unconditional, assent, creating dramatic tension.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then she said, I desire one small petition of thee;":** Bathsheba initiates the conversation, carefully framing her request as minor and insignificant. This opening serves to disarm Solomon and to leverage his natural inclination to grant his mother's wishes, setting a trap for the unsuspecting king or, more likely, testing his discernment and resolve.
* **"[I pray thee], say me not nay.":** This is Bathsheba's direct appeal, an earnest plea for Solomon not to refuse her. It underscores her perceived vulnerability in making the request and her reliance on Solomon's filial love and respect. The KJV's "I pray thee" adds to the supplicatory and humble tone, further emphasizing her expectation of a positive response.
* **"And the king said unto her, Ask on, my mother:":** Solomon's immediate response demonstrates his deep respect and affection for Bathsheba. He grants her permission to speak without even knowing the content of her request, signaling an initial willingness to accede to whatever she might ask. This highlights the significant influence of the queen mother in the ancient Israelite court and Solomon's initial deference.
* **"for I will not say thee nay.":** Solomon's emphatic promise echoes Bathsheba's plea, seemingly guaranteeing that her request will be granted. This unconditional promise, made before the petition is even revealed, creates profound dramatic tension and sets the stage for Solomon's later, unexpected, and decisive action, showcasing his emerging wisdom and political acumen in discerning the true nature of the request.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent **literary devices** to enhance its dramatic impact and convey its underlying messages. **Dialogue** is central, with the direct exchange between Bathsheba and Solomon efficiently revealing their relationship dynamics and advancing the plot. The most prominent device is **dramatic irony**: the audience, having witnessed Adonijah's earlier usurpation attempt and his subsequent request for Abishag, understands that Bathsheba's "one small petition" is anything but. This creates a tension between the characters' perception and the audience's knowledge, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Bathsheba's description of the petition as "small" is a clear **understatement**, strategically employed to downplay its political significance and manipulate Solomon's response. Furthermore, Solomon's seemingly unconditional promise, "I will not say thee nay," serves as a powerful **foreshadowing** device, hinting at the profound and unexpected consequences that will unfold as a direct result of this seemingly benign interaction, revealing Solomon's true character and resolve.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The interaction in [1 Kings 2:20](/1_kings/2-20 "1 Kings 2:20 - Bathsheba's Petition to Solomon") serves as a poignant illustration of the complexities of human relationships, the subtle and often deceptive nature of political ambition, and the critical need for divine wisdom in leadership. While Solomon initially demonstrates filial respect, his subsequent actions (detailed immediately after this verse in [1 Kings 2:22-25](/1_kings/2-22-25 "1 Kings 2:22-25 - Solomon's Judgment on Adonijah")) reveal a profound discernment that looks beyond surface appearances to grasp the true, dangerous implications of Adonijah's request. This highlights the theological theme that true wisdom, often sought from God, is essential for righteous governance and for navigating the deceitful schemes of humanity. It underscores that God's plan for His chosen king will ultimately prevail, even amidst human machinations and attempts to subvert divine order, demonstrating His sovereignty over all earthly affairs.

* [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord"): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction." Solomon's discernment here is a precursor to the divine wisdom he will later embody and for which he will become renowned.
* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in God's Hand"): "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will." This verse powerfully reminds us that even amidst intricate political intrigue and human plotting, God's sovereign hand is continually at work, guiding events according to His purposes.
* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking for Wisdom"): "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." This New Testament passage reinforces the divine source of true wisdom, which Solomon later exemplifies, and encourages believers to seek it from God in all circumstances.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This brief but potent exchange in [1 Kings 2:20](/1_kings/2-20 "1 Kings 2:20 - Bathsheba's Petition to Solomon") offers profound insights for our own lives, particularly concerning discernment, the nature of influence, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Solomon's initial, seemingly unconditional promise to his mother underscores the importance of honoring family and those in positions of respect. However, his subsequent, decisive action (beyond this verse) demonstrates the vital necessity of looking beyond the surface of requests and situations to understand their true intentions and potential implications. In our own interactions, we are called to cultivate a spirit of wisdom and discernment, not merely reacting to what is presented, but seeking to understand the underlying motives and potential consequences of words and actions. This passage also reminds us that influence, whether personal or positional, carries significant responsibility. How we wield our influence, and how we respond to the influence of others, can have far-reaching effects, shaping not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us. Ultimately, it serves as a cautionary tale against unchecked ambition, reminding us that even seemingly "small" acts driven by selfish motives can lead to significant, often negative, outcomes, disrupting peace and order.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do we balance the biblical command to honor our parents and elders with the crucial need for personal discernment, especially when their requests might carry unforeseen or problematic implications?**
* **In what ways might we, like Bathsheba, inadvertently become instruments in a larger, potentially harmful scheme, or, like Solomon, be called to discern hidden motives behind seemingly innocuous requests?**
* **What steps can we take to cultivate greater wisdom and discernment in our daily decision-making, particularly when faced with complex relational or ethical dilemmas that require looking beyond the obvious?**

### FAQ
**Why did Bathsheba agree to present Adonijah's petition to Solomon?**

Answer: The biblical text does not explicitly state Bathsheba's precise motives, leaving room for interpretation. She may have genuinely believed Adonijah's request was "small" and innocent, perhaps out of a degree of naivete, a desire to maintain peace within the royal family after David's death, or even a lingering maternal affection for Adonijah (who was also a son of David). Alternatively, a more astute interpretation suggests she might have suspected Adonijah's true intentions but chose to present the petition anyway, perhaps as a deliberate test of Solomon's wisdom and his ability to discern underlying threats to his newly established reign. Her unique role as queen mother gave her privileged access and significant influence with the king, which Adonijah shrewdly exploited ([1 Kings 2:17](/1_kings/2-17 "1 Kings 2:17 - Adonijah's Request for Abishag")).

**What was the true significance of Adonijah asking for Abishag the Shunammite as his wife?**

Answer: Adonijah's request for Abishag was far from a "small petition"; it was a calculated and profound political maneuver with immense implications. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, marrying a former concubine or attendant of a deceased king was often interpreted as a symbolic, yet very real, claim to the throne itself. It signified succession to the previous king's household, authority, and legacy. Although Abishag had not been intimate with David ([1 Kings 1:4](/1_kings/1-4 "1 Kings 1:4 - Abishag's Role with David")), her close association with the late king made her a potent symbol of royal legitimacy. By seeking to marry her, Adonijah was subtly, yet clearly, attempting to assert a claim to the kingship and undermine Solomon's newly established reign. Solomon immediately recognized this underlying challenge to his authority and acted swiftly and decisively to eliminate the threat ([1 Kings 2:22-25](/1_kings/2-22-25 "1 Kings 2:22-25 - Solomon's Judgment on Adonijah")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The interaction between Solomon and Bathsheba in [1 Kings 2:20](/1_kings/2-20 "1 Kings 2:20 - Bathsheba's Petition to Solomon") subtly foreshadows the perfect wisdom, inherent discernment, and ultimate authority embodied in Jesus Christ. While Solomon, in his nascent reign, must navigate political intrigue and discern the true motives behind a seemingly innocuous request, Christ, as the [King of Kings and Lord of Lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings"), possesses inherent, unchallengeable discernment that requires no testing or external information. He is the one who [knows what is in man](/john/2-25 "John 2:25 - Jesus Knows All People") and whose judgments are always perfectly righteous and true ([John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus' Righteous Judgment")). Unlike Solomon's initial, perhaps politically strategic, 'I will not say thee nay,' Christ's 'yes' is always absolute truth, and His 'no' is always perfect wisdom, for He is the [Amen, the faithful and true witness](/revelation/3-14 "Revelation 3:14 - Jesus, the Amen"). He is the ultimate wise King, whose throne is established not by human maneuvering or the fragile promises of men, but by divine decree, and whose eternal reign is perfectly just, offering true peace and security far beyond any earthly kingdom ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 11:24

But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee.

Matthew 7:7

¶ Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

Matthew 7:11

If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

Matthew 10:35

For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

Matthew 10:36

And a man's foes [shall be] they of his own household.

John 15:16

Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

Luke 11:9

And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.